Episodes

Gardner’s 36th anniversary celebration takes center stage in this episode of Lancaster Connects, with five weeks of savings, contests, giveaways, and customer appreciation events planned throughout October. Ben and Jeff cover 36-month no-interest financing, qualifying purchases of $3,600 or more that include a luxury travel voucher, and prequalification savings of up to $500. Customers can also take advantage of 36-hour anniversary sales featuring mattresses, pillows, bamboo sheets, and mattres...

In this episode, we talk with Jennifer O. Knepper, GTGH Fair Coordinator for Gifts That Give Hope, about the story behind Lancaster’s unique alternative gift fair and the power of giving with purpose. Inspired in 2007 by a group of women in the Harrisburg area who created an alternative gift fair, Jenn brought the concept to Lancaster in 2008—and it has continued to grow ever since. Gifts That Give Hope creates meaningful gift-giving opportunities that support local nonprofits, social enterpris...

In this episode, we sit down with Stephen Zywko, CEO of Compleat, who took the helm in 2024 following his team’s acquisition of the company in 2023. Founded in 1978, Compleat has long been dedicated to helping people recover from disasters. Under its new leadership, the company has shifted its focus from traditional advertising to meaningful community engagement. From sponsoring local nonprofits and encouraging employees to volunteer, to offering scholarships and participating in community event...

In this episode, we sit down with Terry C. Kile, CEO and Founder of the Lancaster County Food Exchange, a free mobile web application created to help food pantries reduce food waste and connect families with the food they need most. Terry shares the inspiring story behind the platform and his mission to ensure that “no good food goes unused, and no family goes hungry.” With initial support from organizations including the Central PA Food Bank, Midwest Food Bank, and Community Action Partnership...

If you're curious how one raw, unfiltered moment can turn into a mission that protects Lancaster County's most vulnerable kids, this episode is for you. Meet Cara Torres, a Hempfield grad, mom of three, Etsy shop owner, and forensic nurse practitioner whose front row seat to rising child advocacy referrals led her to blurt out five words that became a book title: "It's a Jungle out here." What started as a gut reaction and late night journal entries has grown into something bigger, and Cara open...

In this episode, we sit down with Jessie Tuno, Women’s Business Center Manager, and Lindsay High, Business Development Officer at ASSETS Lancaster, to explore how entrepreneurship can create meaningful economic opportunities for underserved communities. Jessie shares her experience guiding early-stage entrepreneurs through the Idea Incubator, helping transform business ideas into sustainable ventures, while Lindsay brings her expertise in business development and supporting entrepreneurs through...

In this episode, Ben and Jeff explore the real cost of bad sleep and why finding the right mattress is about more than simply finding a great price. With Labor Day being one of the biggest mattress-shopping periods of the year, they discuss Gardner’s Mattress & More’s FREE • FREE • FREE event, featuring FREE Sales Tax, No Interest. No Money Down. Financing Through 2030, and a FREE Gift With Purchase. The conversation also covers common mattress-shopping mistakes, signs it may be time for a repl...

In this episode, we sit down with Nicole Dannehl, Owner & CEO of Nikki’s Custard, to explore how her Midwestern roots and lifelong love of frozen custard inspired her to build a woman-owned, family-run business in Lancaster, PA. Nicole shares her journey from raising three children and building careers in educational and healthcare fundraising and construction management to turning her passion for frozen treats, creativity, and community into a business in 2022. Tune in for an inspiring conversa...

In this episode, we sit down with Adam Zurn, founder of Uncharted Lancaster, to explore the fascinating intersection of history, folklore, and adventure. Adam shares how he uncovers forgotten stories, local legends, and hidden places throughout Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, bringing the region's rich past to life through immersive storytelling, treasure hunts, guided explorations, and kayak tours to the ancient Safe Harbor petroglyphs along the Susquehanna River. A technology education teache...

In this episode, we sit down with singer, songwriter, and musician Cody Tyler to explore the roots of his authentic Appalachian sound and the stories that shape his music. Growing up in the foothills of Appalachia with deep family ties to coal country and the Rust Belt, Cody shares how his heritage influences his songwriting and why his style goes beyond traditional "red dirt country." We also discuss the legendary artists who inspired him—including Merle Haggard, Waylon Jennings, The Allman Bro...

In this episode, we sit down with Pashk Sokoli, Executive Director of the Pennsylvania Furniture Mission, to explore how furnishing a home can transform lives. Pashk shares the organization’s mission of providing free essential furniture to veterans, refugees, survivors of domestic violence, and individuals and families transitioning out of homelessness. Through a dignity-centered approach that empowers clients to choose their own furnishings, the Pennsylvania Furniture Mission is creating space...

In this episode, we’re joined by Christina Diehl, a trusted real estate professional with 16 years of experience helping clients make confident, informed decisions. As a lifelong Lancaster County resident and the 2026 President of the Lancaster County Association of Realtors®, Christina brings a unique blend of local expertise, industry leadership, and investor perspective to every conversation. She shares valuable insights on buying and selling homes, building equity, and using real estate as a...

In this episode, we’re joined by Eric Schubert, a Lancaster-based public historian, board member of the Historic Preservation Trust of Lancaster County, and forensic genealogist whose work has been featured on Good Morning America, People Magazine, and other national outlets. Eric shares his passion for uncovering overlooked histories and preserving the stories that shape our communities. We also discuss the W. Miller Barbour Lecture Series, which he co-organized with Abigail Sholes to restore t...

In this episode, Thomas DeLong shares his journey from growing up on a dairy farm in Southern Lancaster to building a successful career in real estate. Before becoming a licensed Realtor with Life Changes Realty Group, Tom explored a wide range of careers, including stunt driving, youth ministry, project management, retail banking, and investments. These diverse experiences shaped his unique perspective and passion for helping others. Tom discusses how his background in banking and investments ...

In this episode, we speak with Kristin Chronister about the more than 60-year legacy of Long’s Park Amphitheater Foundation and its mission to bring exceptional arts and cultural experiences to Lancaster County. Kristin shares how the Foundation’s Summer Music Series and annual Art Festival showcase diverse talent from across the nation and around the world, creating opportunities for community connection through music, visual arts, and cultural celebration. We also discuss the Foundation’s comm...

In this episode, we sit down with Benton Webber, President of the Manheim Township Historical Society, to explore the rich history and heritage of the Lancaster area. A nearly lifelong resident of the community and an avid amateur historian, Ben shares his passion for preserving local stories, connecting with fellow historians, and celebrating the people, places, and events that have shaped the region. Join us for an engaging conversation about the importance of local history and the role it pla...

In this episode, we sit down with Danielle Keperling, a dedicated preservation expert who has been working full-time in the historic preservation industry since 2001. Danielle holds an MBA from Eastern University and works alongside her husband, Jonathan Keperling, at Keperling Preservation Services, where they specialize in restoring 18th-, 19th-, and 20th-century buildings. Danielle also serves as the Executive Director of the Historic Preservation Trust of Lancaster County, a nonprofit organ...

In this episode, we sit down with Kevin Faulkner, founder of 3B Credit Health, to discuss his journey from overcoming personal credit challenges to building a thriving credit education and restoration company. Kevin shares how he launched 3B Credit Health in 2020 with nothing more than an iPhone, a $50 printer, and a commitment to helping others achieve financial success. Rooted in small-town values and a personalized approach, his company has helped more than 1,000 clients improve their credit,...

In this episode, we sit down with Monica Forte, owner of Making Magical Vacations Travel, to explore how her 37 years in the travel industry have helped countless families and travelers create unforgettable vacation experiences. Monica shares how she and her team of Magical Specialists help clients maximize their time, save money, and get the absolute most out of every trip — whether it’s a dream family getaway, a magical destination vacation, or a once-in-a-lifetime adventure. Tune in as Monica...

In this episode, Ben & Jeff discuss how upgrading your sleep can help you stay refreshed, energized, and ready to enjoy the summer season. The conversation explores the importance of quality rest, key factors to consider when shopping for a new mattress, and how better sleep can support overall wellness and daily performance. Tune in for practical insights on enhancing comfort, improving recovery, and making smart choices when investing in better sleep. Thank you for watching Lancaster Connects...

In this episode, hosts Ben McClure and Jeff Giagnocavo team up as Lancaster’s local “dynamic duo” to break down the LNP Reader's Choice Awards — what they are, why they matter, and how community support can make a real impact on local businesses like Gardner's Mattress & More. The guys share why voting in local awards helps spotlight trusted businesses, strengthens the local economy, and builds stronger community connections. They’ll also share their official voting link for the mattress store c...

In this episode, Duane Hagelgans shares his decades of experience in the fire service and his ongoing commitment to community safety. As Fire Commissioner for Blue Rock Fire Rescue—an organization he helped establish in 2011—Duane discusses the department’s role serving six miles of Manor Township and Millersville Borough, as well as the current campaign to build a new station for its dedicated volunteers. With an impressive 48-year career, including his retirement from Lancaster City in 2011, D...

In this episode, Ben McClure and Jeff Giagnocavo preview the 2026 Memorial Day event at Gardner’s Mattress & More, focusing on how upgrading your sleep can help you feel more energized all summer long. The conversation covers why quality rest matters, what to consider when choosing a new mattress, and how holiday promotions can make better sleep more attainable. Tune in for practical tips on boosting comfort, supporting overall wellness through sleep, and making the most of limited-time savings....

In this episode, we meet Drew Bleil, Sales Manager at Gardner’s Mattress & More and Lancaster’s newest sleep science coach. Drew shares how over a decade in the mattress industry has shaped his passion for helping people improve their health, recovery, and daily performance through better sleep. He talks about his thoughtful, no-pressure approach to working with customers, why personalized sleep solutions matter, and what people often get wrong when choosing a mattress. We also dive into Drew’s ...